Dili, Timor-Leste, November 19, 2024 — IFC and the Associação Empresarial das Mulheres de Timor-Leste (Timor-Leste Business Women Association—AEMTL) have announced the winners of the first Women in Business Awards in Timor-Leste, celebrating the achievements of women in business and finance in the country.
These awards highlight the importance of promoting women’s leadership and recognizing their contributions to the private sector in Timor-Leste. They showcase women's successes and initiatives in business and finance, creating role models to inspire a new generation of women entrepreneurs and leaders.
“Empowering women in business is not just a matter of fairness, but it is also essential for the economic and social development of our country,” said President of the Republic of Timor-Leste José Ramos-Horta, who is also a patron of the awards. “These awards celebrate the remarkable achievements of Timorese women and serve as a powerful reminder that women’s increased economic participation and leadership benefits everyone.”
The event brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, including government officials, business leaders, and representatives from international organizations. The recognition of these outstanding women not only highlights their individual achievements but also emphasizes the collective progress being made towards gender equality in Timor-Leste.
“Women’s economic empowerment is not a single effort; it requires the involvement of everyone to increase women’s economic power and influence in the economy,” said Hergui Luina Fernandes Alves, President of AEMTL. “It is inspiring to see empowered women supporting others, creating a ripple effect that leads to a better life for society. Rewarding women in business is a recognition of their efforts and achievements.”
“IFC is committed to empowering women and helping overcome barriers to success,” said David Freedman, IFC’s Resident Representative for Timor-Leste. “Accelerating progress in gender equality is critical for Timor-Leste's development so we are proud to showcase outstanding achievements through the country’s first Women in Business Awards.”
The awards recognized winners across ten categories (see Annex 1), were launched as part of IFC’s Timor-Leste Financial Sector Skills Program. The program, delivered in partnership with Banco Central de Timor-Leste and supported by the governments of Australia and New Zealand, aims to foster broader financial inclusion through the development of the financial sector in Timor-Leste through targeting skills initiatives.
“Australia is proud to support these Awards, and the recognition they bring to the work taking place to empower women and contribute to private sector growth,” said Caitlin Wilson, the Ambassador of Australia to Timor-Leste. “Business owners provide essential services to their communities and provide employment and skills development opportunities for others. We hope these Awards will inspire young Timorese, especially women and girls, to consider careers in business and entrepreneurship.”
“Recognizing the achievements of women in business is essential to fostering a more equitable and prosperous society,” said Helen Tunnah, the Ambassador of New Zealand to Timor-Leste. “These awards not only celebrate individual successes but also inspire future generations of women leaders to succeed.”
About IFC
IFC — a member of the World Bank Group — is the largest global development institution focused on the private sector in emerging markets. We work in more than 100 countries, using our capital, expertise, and influence to create markets and opportunities in developing countries. In fiscal year 2024, IFC committed a record $56 billion to private companies and financial institutions in developing countries, leveraging private sector solutions and mobilizing private capital to create a world free of poverty on a livable planet. For more information, visit www.ifc.org.
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About AEMTL
AEMTL was started by 43 female entrepreneurs on April 26, 2008, with the aim of providing opportunities and encouraging Timorese entrepreneurs to gain confidence and motivation to contribute to the nation's development.
Serving as an umbrella for other businesses in various sectors like Tourism, Commerce, Importation, Civil Construction, and more, AEMTL aims to support Timorese entrepreneurs in facing challenges and competing in Timor-Leste's business landscape, with the aspiration to contribute to the economic development of the country.
The spirit of the 43 Timorese entrepreneurs believes in finding ways to help women who struggle and wish to become strong partners for their families and the government of Timor-Leste. AEMTL's main objective is to promote and encourage Timorese women to be brave and confident in their endeavors. Through training programs and collaborations with international institutions and the government, AEMTL enhances entrepreneurial capacities by sharing information and knowledge on business systems and mechanisms.
For more information, visit https://aemtl.tl/
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